If you’ve been on Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen gooey cheese pulls, sandwiches stuffed with fresh vegetables and meats, and crispy golden bread that practically begs to be devoured. Hard Times Deli isn’t just the hottest new spot; it’s the name on everyone’s lips (and in everyone’s feeds). What started as a pop-up sensation has exploded into a must-visit destination, drawing lines out the door and racking up rave reviews. But beyond the social media hype, there’s something deeper at play: an unwavering commitment to local ingredients and a mission to give back to the Memphis community.
We caught up with Harrison Downing (pictured left), executive chef and owner/operator — although “caught up” might be a stretch because he’s busier than he ever imagined, juggling the nonstop rush of Hard Times Deli’s skyrocketing success. In fact, for half of our conversation, he had his head in a smoker, making sure the next batch of house-made meats came out just right.
It’s a fitting image for a guy who’s built a business on hard work, hustle, and an obsession with quality. Between prep work and interviewing potential new staff members, he talked about what makes Hard Times Deli a hit and a true labor of love.
Harrison owns and operates Hard Times Deli with two other major players in the Memphis food scene: Cole Jeans (pictured right), owner of Kinfolk, and Schuyler O’Brien, City Silo food and beverage director. The three men had a dream to bring an upscale sandwich shop to the 901 that uses premium, locally sourced ingredients.
“It would be much cheaper and easier to just go to Restaurant Depot for our ingredients, but that’s not our vision,” Harrison explains. “We believe in quality ingredients and keeping things local. I don’t want to call up big box stores when I’m out of protein. I would much rather call up a friend and keep things in the community.”
Hard Times Deli’s bread is made fresh every day at Josh Steiner’s Hive Bagel & Deli, and their beef and pork come from Home Place Pastures in Como, Mississippi. They do all of their protein in-house, and this commitment to quality and community hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“If you ask me why we always have a line out the door, it’s because we’re selling more than just sandwiches. It’s our blood, sweat, and tears,” Harrison explains.
Hard Times Deli couldn’t have picked a more fitting home, located at 655 Marshall Ave., right across from the legendary Sun Studios in the heart of a neighborhood on the rise. Nestled in the Edge District, their shop is surrounded by the city’s rich musical history while being part of its exciting future. Once an overlooked stretch between Downtown and Midtown, the area is now buzzing with new businesses, creative energy, and a growing sense of community. Like the neighborhood, Hard Times Deli blends old-school craftsmanship with fresh ideas.
With their dedication to local ingredients, deep ties to the community, and a spot in one of the city’s most exciting neighborhoods, the team behind Hard Times Deli has created something special: a sandwich shop that feels like home. As the lines keep growing and word spreads, one thing is clear. Hard Times Deli isn’t just having a moment. They’re here to stay, serving up sandwiches and Memphis pride, one bite at a time.
